Since April 2023, there has been a battle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. During this conflict, the CRC, an independent organization dedicated to upholding the rights and safety of children globally, has recorded numerous acts of violence and crimes against children.

The Committee released a statement expressing concern over reports of rape and denial of humanitarian access, both of which have impacted children’s access to basic needs. The violations also extended to international laws and children’s economic and social rights.

Nearly 24 million children in Sudan are currently facing a crisis, leaving 14 million in dire need of immediate aid, 19 million without access to education, and four million displaced from their homes.

The Committee stated that their conditions are deplorable, citing severe shortages of food and safe drinking water and extremely limited opportunities for healthcare and medication.

during the past week

Significant rise in infringements over the past week

The Council also expressed concern about a significant rise in the amount of children who have been slain or subjected to sexual violence as a tactic of war, in contrast to the previous year.

Children are at higher risk given the widespread armed recruitment of children, particularly in Darfur and other areas, including eastern Sudan, it said.

It was reported that numerous schools in the nation have been demolished, while over 170 campuses have been transformed into temporary housing for those who have been forced from their homes. This puts children’s access to education in danger for a prolonged period of time and leaves them at risk of being sexually exploited or trafficked.

Decisive action

The Committee urged Sudan to promptly implement all crucial and essential actions to cease the grave transgressions and uphold its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Additionally, they called for cooperation with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan, formed by the Human Rights Council in October 2023.

The State was reminded of its duties outlined in the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding the participation of children in armed conflict. Reports have surfaced claiming that both the SAF and RSF have enlisted numerous children in Darfur and eastern Sudan.

The Committee urges Sudan to cease the recruitment of children and protect them from the consequences of the military actions carried out by both parties, the Committee stated.

The source of the information is the United Nations news website.